Arsenal - Gabriel Martinelli
Image credit: Getty Images
Gabriel Martinelli has made it clear he is prepared to fight for his place at Arsenal despite the influx of attacking reinforcements this summer.
The Brazil international has been a key figure under Mikel Arteta, often deployed as the first-choice option on the left wing while competing with Leandro Trossard. The 24-year-old contributed 10 goals and six assists last season, but his role is now under greater scrutiny following Arsenal’s high-profile signings.
The Gunners bolstered their attack with the £85m arrival of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, who is expected to lead the line, while Noni Madueke joined from Chelsea to provide cover for Bukayo Saka on the right and potentially feature on the left. In addition, Eberechi Eze’s switch from Crystal Palace has added further competition in wide areas.
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Martinelli was linked with a summer exit, with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr among those interested. Reports suggested Arsenal were open to a sale, but their £60m valuation, well above the £40m figure suitors were willing to pay, ensured he stayed at the Emirates.
Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze
Arsenal signed both Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze this summer (Image credit: Getty Images)
Despite speculation about his future, Martinelli insists he is unfazed by the challenge of competing for his place.
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“Regarding Arsenal, it’s like here in the national team,” Martinelli said. “If you ask me if it’s good to have Vini or Rodrygo in the squad, I’ll definitely say yes, because they’ll help the team to win titles. And if we want to win, we need quality players.
“It’s the same with Arsenal. I’m very happy with Eze and Madueke’s arrival as well. Trossard also plays on the left side. We’re very happy when we have quality players by our side. We have a lot of matches in the season. A lot of things can happen, injuries, etc. So, we’re happy for the club to be looking for the best players in the league so we can try to win.”
Martinelli remains a regular for Brazil, starting in their recent World Cup qualifier against Chile and hoping to keep his place against Bolivia.
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